Humphrey of Lancaster, Duke of Gloucester

Humphrey of Lancaster, Duke of Gloucester, was an English prince, soldier, and literary patron. He was a son of Henry IV, brother to Henry V, and uncle to Henry VI. His upbringing was more intellectual than his brothers, and he was created Duke of Gloucester in 1414. Gloucester served in the Hundred Years’ War, fought at Agincourt in 1415, and participated in the conquest of Normandy. He became Lord Protector of England during his nephew’s minority. Gloucester’s political career was marked by disputes with other regents and his unsuccessful attempts to gain a foreign principality.

Gloucester’s stance against concessions in France and his advocacy for offensive warfare led to a decline in political favor. His second wife’s trial for witchcraft in 1441 damaged his influence. Accused of treason in 1447, he died shortly after his arrest. Despite personal and political failings, he was known for his scholarly activity and support of humanism, contributing to the early renaissance cultural expansion and earning him the moniker ‘good Duke Humphrey’.